What to do in Sydney this weekend

Your guide to what’s on this weekend in Sydney, from events and festivals to attractions and fun things to do.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

​​​Sydney is on the top of traveller’s bucket lists when visiting Australia. A bustling city jam-packed with dazzlingly sky risers, spectacular harbour front, and stunning beaches. But how do you fit the whole city in just one weekend?

  • Friday Night

    Arrive at this striking city on Friday night and start off your vacation under the stars. Skip Netflix for the night and enjoy Sydney’s summer nights out in the open. Floating Cinema is a unique movie experience held on a large boat that cruising around Sydney’s marina. There is a range of movies to choose from, but be quick to book, as there are only 150 tickets available each session. After the movie why not get in the Christmas spirit and visit some of Sydney’s best Christmas lights? St Mary’s Cathedral’s light display starts at 8:30pm and has hot churros and delicious gelato available while you marvel at the festivity.

  • Saturday Day

    Make the most of the summer weather and see the greatest sights of Sydney amidst the glorious sun. Join on the lunch harbour cruise, and see the Sydney Opera house, the Sydney harbour bridge, and the city’s skyline from the sapphire waters. Departing from Circular Quay the cruise travels through the stunning region as you enjoy a delicious buffet luncheon.

    For fun for the whole family, why not visit the exciting Luna Park? Get your thrills as you walk through this giant smiling mouth the park is so famous for. A bonus point for this spot is the spectacular panoramic view of Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Zip around the roller coaster at sunset for one of the best views around.

  • Saturday Night

    See Sydney’s skyline and surrounds from an above at the famous Sydney Tower Eye Voucher. The perfect time to travel is during the night, for the area is covered in twinkling bright lights of the city buildings. If you are interested in a nibble, there are two different restaurants to choose from, the Sydney Tower Buffet and 360 Bar and Dining. The Sydney Tower Buffet promises you marvellous views as it is set on a revolving floor.

    For some late-night shopping, visit Chinatown’s Night Market! Popular with both the locals and tourists, the market transforms the small street into a buzzing strip of food stalls, craft shops, and lanterns lighting up the canopy.  

  • Sunday Day

    If you still aren’t sick of views, one of the best activities is climbing the Sydney harbour bridge. Travel up the 1,332 steps and find out why this high-altitude lookout point is worth the climb. Start the day off right as you enjoy this spectacular view. After this exhilarating adventure slow down your heartbeat and visit the beauty hidden within the Art Gallery of NSW. Here you can wander the rooms to marvel at the unique styles of art here including contemporary, photography, as well as sculptures and installations. If you are interested in a walk through nature, visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in the afternoon for a soothing oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle.

Related article: How Long Should You Stay in Sydney?

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

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